Well, after a grueling end of the semester, and a few flight delays, I am back in the Midwest. The snowflakes are dancing lightly on air, there are apple pies in the oven, and the gifts are all wrapped and under the tree. Even the dog looks good asleep in the living room.

I woke up in the middle of the night last night and laid there for a few minutes awe stricken at the absolute silence. There is a stillness here that just can't be found in the city.

Here's hoping your holidays are peaceful and filled with warm memories.